Raleigh, N.C. — After a shaky start NC State baseball heads in to a top ten showdown against Florida State as one of the nation's hottest teams. The Pack has won 20 of their last 21 games en route to a number five national ranking.

"We know what we've done, we know where we've been. One time we were 3-6 in the league and 18-10," said head coach Elliot Avent. "But looking where we've been, where we are now, we're pretty pleased with what these guys have done. The leadership has been tremendous. The players have played hard, they've been resilient and they've given us everything they have. So we're just proud of where they're at."

State's three game series against the Seminoles has a lot riding on it. Despite being ranked ahead of the Seminoles, the Pack trails Florida State by a half game in the ACC Atlantic. A division title could be on the line this weekend and the winner could also gain the inside track to host a Super Regional in the NCAA tournament. Throw in the fact that State's hosting the series and the scene is set for an interesting weekend in Raleigh.

"It's definitely a big series, it has many implications," said NC State first baseman Tarran Senay. "Pretty much a rocking time here at the Doak, expect it to be sold out."

"I love it when the fans are here and they pack it out. It's always nice, it gets me going, a little jittery ready to play. I'm ready to play right now but you gotta wait until one o'clock tomorrow," said NC State pitcher Carlos Rodon.

"It's a huge advantage, we love playing here," said NC State outfielder Brett Williams. "We've always played good here. The fans are great, it's a huge advantage. We love playing here and we're going to try and give the fans a good show."

wlcat609May 11, 2013

Game 1 of series - FINAL: NCSU 3 Florida State 1

duane11May 11, 2013

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At 40-12 regular season, I'd say the Pack is a certain Regional host, and a win there could bring them into consideration for a super regional as well. There won't be many teams with significantly more than 40 regular season wins.

— Posted by Ken D.

a series win over fsu should clinch a national seed for the Pack, as long as they dont flop against duke next week..GO PACK!

VT1994HokieMay 11, 2013

They have greatly improved. Go Pack.

Ken D.May 11, 2013

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State will hit the 40 W mark, which is a great season. Might as well accomplish that against the 'Noles.

— Posted by BattlingBishop 5

At 40-12 regular season, I'd say the Pack is a certain Regional host, and a win there could bring them into consideration for a super regional as well. There won't be many teams with significantly more than 40 regular season wins.

BattlingBishop 5May 11, 2013

State will hit the 40 W mark, which is a great season. Might as well accomplish that against the 'Noles.